Meniscus Tears: Should You Consider Arthroscopic Surgery?

Meniscal tear arthroscopy inquiry..?

Hello Doctor,
I have a question.
When I was in middle school, I was injured by a heavy object, and an MRI showed that I had a tear in the cartilage of my left knee meniscus.
At that time, the doctor only recommended medication to see if it would heal on its own.
However, after a long time, there has been no improvement, and sometimes when I exercise or squat, my knee feels like it gets "stuck," making it difficult to walk.
After a while, it does get better, but recently when I went to the hospital for a check-up, the doctor suggested arthroscopic surgery.
He mentioned that since a long time has passed, if the tear cannot be repaired, it may need to be removed, which could lead to some long-term complications, such as arthritis.
This makes me feel quite conflicted about whether I should undergo surgery.
I hope the doctor can help me with my dilemma.
Thank you,
Confused person, Danniell

Daniell, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/05/01

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

The treatment for a meniscus tear depends on the specific circumstances and may involve repair or partial or total meniscectomy.
If repair is possible, the prognosis is the best.
Partial meniscectomy also yields good results, while total meniscectomy may accelerate the wear of the articular cartilage.
However, it often takes a long time for the knee joint to show signs or symptoms of degeneration in the absence of the meniscus.
Therefore, the final treatment decision should always be made in consultation with a physician.
Sometimes, the decision can only be made during arthroscopy, so it is crucial to find a trustworthy physician.

Reply Date: 2003/05/01

More Info

Hello Danniell,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your knee condition and the potential for arthroscopic surgery. It’s understandable to feel conflicted about undergoing surgery, especially when considering the long-term implications. Let’s break down your situation and the options available to you.

Based on your description, it seems you have a meniscus tear in your left knee, which has not healed over time despite conservative treatment. Meniscus tears can lead to symptoms such as pain, swelling, and the sensation of the knee "catching" or "locking," which can significantly affect your mobility and quality of life. The meniscus plays a crucial role in knee stability and shock absorption, so damage to this structure can lead to further complications if left untreated.

Conservative Management vs. Surgery
Initially, your doctor recommended conservative management, which is common for minor meniscus tears. This typically includes rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. However, when symptoms persist or worsen, as in your case, surgical intervention may be warranted.
Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that allows the surgeon to visualize the inside of the knee joint and address the meniscus tear. Depending on the severity and location of the tear, the surgeon may either repair the meniscus or remove the damaged portion (partial meniscectomy).

Risks and Benefits of Surgery
While surgery can provide relief and restore function, it’s essential to consider the potential risks and benefits:
1. Benefits:
- Pain Relief: Many patients experience significant pain relief after surgery.

- Improved Function: Surgery can restore range of motion and stability, allowing you to return to activities you enjoy.

- Preventing Further Damage: Addressing the tear may prevent further joint damage and complications, such as osteoarthritis.

2. Risks:
- Post-Surgical Complications: As with any surgery, there are risks of infection, blood clots, and complications related to anesthesia.

- Long-Term Effects: Removing part of the meniscus can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis in the future, as the meniscus helps distribute weight and absorb shock in the knee joint.

Making the Decision
Given that your symptoms have persisted and are affecting your daily life, it may be worth considering the surgery, especially if conservative measures have not provided relief. It’s crucial to have an open discussion with your orthopedic surgeon about your concerns. Ask about the specific type of tear you have, the likelihood of repair versus removal, and what the expected outcomes are based on your individual case.

Additionally, consider seeking a second opinion if you feel uncertain. Different surgeons may have varying approaches and insights that could help you make a more informed decision.

Post-Surgery Rehabilitation
If you decide to proceed with surgery, be prepared for a rehabilitation process afterward. Physical therapy is essential to regain strength and mobility in your knee. Following your surgeon's post-operative instructions and committing to your rehabilitation program will be key to a successful recovery.

In conclusion, while the decision to undergo arthroscopic surgery can be daunting, it may ultimately lead to improved function and quality of life. Weighing the potential benefits against the risks, along with a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider, will help you make the best choice for your situation. Wishing you the best in your recovery and decision-making process!
Take care,
Doctor Q&A Teams

Similar Q&A

Understanding Meniscus Injury: Surgery Options and Recovery Concerns

I have a meniscus injury, and my doctor said I need to undergo arthroscopic surgery, which will involve removing part of the meniscus. I'm really worried about whether I will be able to walk normally again after the surgery and if there will be significant long-term effects ...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
If a meniscus tear can be surgically repaired, then surgery should be considered. As for the choice of materials to be used, you should discuss this with your attending physician before making a decision.

Understanding the Causes of Meniscus Tears: Beyond Sports Injuries

Hello Doctor: My knee has been painful for six years, and recently the pain has become more frequent. After an examination at the hospital, I was told that I have a meniscal cartilage tear. I would like to ask the doctor, what causes a meniscal tear? I am neither an athlete nor h...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Meniscus tears are usually caused by injury or structural abnormalities of the meniscus itself. The likelihood of a tear occurring without external force is very low. Some individuals may experience similar phenomena due to degeneration, but this typically occurs in older adults ...

Understanding Meniscus Injuries: Is Surgery Always Necessary?

Hello, doctor: I would like to ask if a meniscus injury can be diagnosed through palpation alone, without the need for further examination. Is it normal for the doctor to recommend arthroscopy surgery based solely on that?

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics
Hello, a meniscus injury typically presents with symptoms such as swelling and pain at specific angles. Physical examination may not always reveal the injury, but there are special physical tests, such as the McMurray test and Apley test. Generally, MRI or arthroscopy is also per...

Alternative Treatments for Meniscus Tears Beyond Surgery

Hello, a few years ago I discovered a tear in my meniscus due to a minor car accident. I would like to ask the doctor if there are any treatment options other than meniscus replacement? Thank you, Dr. Chen.

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics
Hello, currently there is no surgical procedure for replacing the meniscus in cases of meniscal tears. The primary focus is on repair and debridement. Whether further surgery is needed for meniscal damage depends on the MRI findings and the patient's symptoms. Thank you.